Celebrate BioDiversity Festival

Date: May 30, 2008 to May 31, 2008

Location: Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, California

Description:

The National Geographic Society and the National Park Service at the Santa Monica Mountains will be hosting a BioBlitz, a 24-hour event from May 30 to May 31, noon to noon. Teams of scientists, naturalists, community leaders, students, and the public will explore the biodiversity in the nation's largest urban national park.

The BioBlitz is part scientific endeavor, part festival and part outdoor classroom. The goal of this event is to record as many living organisms in the Santa Monica Mountains as possible in 24 hours to promote awareness of the diverse species in this urban setting and enhance understanding of how to protect the environment.

The Celebrate BioDiversity Festival will follow the species count on May 31, from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. The event will feature a performance by the Banana Slug String Band. There will also be discussion with the scientists and exhibits.

"Explorers" of all ages are needed. Paramount Ranch will serve as "base camp" for both the BioBlitz and the festival.

Registration for the BioBlitz is required. For more information visit www.nationalgeographic.com/bioblitz or call (800) 638-6400 ext. 6186.